PM: Red shirts must take responsibility over petition

Abhisit was speaking following the pro-Thaksin leaders's announcement last week that they had gathered altogether five million signatures to support their attempt to seek a pardon for ex-PM Thaksin Shinatra.

"I reiterate that political activities must not affect the nation's main institution (the monarchy)," he said, adding "Those who receive (personal) benefit from this should stop their action."

The premier said concerned authorities will examine whether the process of seeking a pardon followed the law. If not, they will inform the public to create an improved understanding of the issue.

The politicians should know what they should do and should not do.

"There's an attempt to convince people that the government is obstructing the petition movement," said Abhisit. "The government is simply trying to inform the public of the facts."

The prime minister said names will be verified after being handed to the Office of the His Majesty's Principle Private Secretary.

"If found that names and signatures are falsely acquired, the red shirts leaders must take full responsibility, he said.